Released on October 26, 2000
The contributions of eight remarkable Saskatchewan citizens have beenrecognized at the Saskatchewan Order of Merit investiture.
The Saskatchewan Order of Merit, the province's top honour, recognizes
outstanding contributions to the greater Saskatchewan community. Lieutenant
Governor Dr. Lynda Haverstock presided over the ceremony.
The recipients are: Allan Blakeney, Premier of Saskatchewan from 1971-1982;
Lorne Dietrick, known for his work in the farm co-operative movement; Bill
Hanson, a respected consultant for Aboriginal issues; Robert Hinitt, a long-
time supporter of amateur theatre in Saskatoon; Ruth Horlick, renowned for her
community service in mental health; Dr. Krishna Kumar, a nationally and
internationally renowned neurosurgeon in Regina; world and Olympic curling
champion Sandra Schmirler; and Fred Wagman, known for his initiatives in
community broadcasting.
"It is my great privilege to invest this year's recipients with the
Saskatchewan Order of Merit," Haverstock said. "Each has enriched Saskatchewan
through contributions and achievements that represent every part of our
society. These esteemed individuals represent the talent and vision of our
province, and serve as inspiration to us all."
The first-ever Order of Merit awarded posthumously was accepted on behalf of
Sandra Schmirler by her husband Shannon England.
As well, former Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Fedoruk presented a collar of office
to Provincial Secretary Jack Hillson as a millennium gift to the Province of
Saskatchewan. Hillson then presented the collar to the lieutenant governor, to
be worn by her when conferring official honours.
The central element of the collar is a circular medallion displaying the
Saskatchewan coat of arms. The chain is composed of miniature medals of the
Saskatchewan Order of Merit and the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal. These
elements are linked together with the red lion and the gold wheat sheaf from
the provincial coat of arms.
"The collar of office is a most appropriate and attractive addition to the
Province's ceremonial repertoire," Haverstock said. "The design of Ms.
Fedoruk's millennium gift captures the values of Saskatchewan and reflects the
pride in our past and the promise of our future. I will be proud to wear the
collar in my role as chancellor of our provincial honours."
Nominations for the Order of Merit come from the public. The Saskatchewan
Honours Advisory Council reviews all nominations and recommends recipients each
year for investiture.
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For more information, contact:
Michael Jackson, Secretary
Saskatchewan Honours Advisory Council
Protocol Office
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-3109